Abstract: This commentary explores the concept of a regulated market for currently illegal drugs. It details a variety of specific public health tools which could be used in a regulatory regimen to control access to these substances. The distinction between administrative and social controlling mechanisms is discussed. The author concludes that a regulated market for drugs founded on inclusive public health and moral principles is a rational approach to the pervasive global concern of illegal drugs in our society.
Keywords: drug market; illicit drug; legal regulation; drug legalization; drug decriminalization; public health; AOD public policy strategy; policy recommendations